Yankees trade rumors: Indians, Rangers interested in Carlos Beltran

Cleveland and Texas have discussed deals for outfielder Carlos Beltran with the Yankees, according to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman and MLB.com’s J.R. Sullivan.

The Indians have also been linked to Jonathan Lucroy, and since adding catching depth appears to be their priority before the deadline, acquiring Beltran might not be likely.

While Cleveland President of Baseball Operations Chris Antonetti said adding to the team’s payroll wouldn’t affect its actions in advance of the non-waiver trade deadline, Beltran might be too costly for the Indians. Beltran is earning $15 million this season and is still due $5.5 million for the remainder of the year.

Sullivan notes the Rangers have only “touched base” with the Yankees with regard to a deal for Beltran and that “it doesn’t appear serious.” With Prince Fielder out for the season after undergoing neck surgery, the Rangers could consider adding another power bat to their lineup.

Beltran, 39, is an impending free agent, and the Yankees reportedly are open to moving most of the soon-to-be free agents on their roster. New York already moved one by trading Aroldis Chapman to the Cubs.

Beltran is having his best offensive season since 2011, batting .305/.346/.544 with 21 home runs and 62 RBIs. He is a career .281 hitter but might not be as valuable on the current market, since there are several outfielders expected to be available leading up to the deadline.